ME4TES

Multi-scale modelling and Experimental validation of Thermochemical Energy Storage materials

Publieke samenvatting / Public summary

Aanleiding
There is a growing need for flexibility for the use of local and/or sustainable energy sources (a.o. the sun), which is caused by the natural fluctuations in the supply of these forms of energy. Compact thermal energy storage strongly contributes to the desired flexibility and energy savings while maintaining a secure supply and level of comfort.

Doelstelling
The aim of ME4TES is to understand the structure-property relationships of heat and mass transfer, describe this behavior in models and provide design criteria for optimally functioning TCMs inside a component of the thermal battery. The long-term aim is to accelerate the development of an efficient and compact heat battery and to support other running projects.

Korte omschrijving
The UT in the first place will perform multi-scale modelling of TCMs using extensions of models already existing both at UT and TNO, with help from FPsim. The structure of TCMs will be described at different length scales, namely at the level of TCM particles, pellets and a packed bed in interaction with the heat exchanger, and this is addressed and incorporated in the theoretical models. To validate the theoretical models, a single salt will be chosen as model TCM, with which controlled structures will be synthesized and characterized at various length scales. The synthesis and characterization activities will be performed by TNO with the help from RTB and PCMT. Materials will be prepared at a gram-scale, but with highly controlled structure (powder and/or pellet bulk density and size distribution, pellet porosity & powder and/or pellet shape). Finally, to understand and measure the interaction of TCMs with the system, RTB will design a setup that simulates typical heat exchanger / reactor system considering the heat and mass transport of a given TCM.

Resultaat
ME4TES will yield a validated model that accurately describes the behavior of TCMs at various length scales, both for powders and for pellets. The model will have predictive value on materials' heat and mass transport and will provide design criteria for the production of optimally functioning TCMs and thereby accelerating the development of an efficient 'Heat Battery'.